Miracle Fauli-Garibay, a communications major from Stockton, was presented the Outstanding Person Award for her work in the community during Fresno State’s Rosa Parks Awards as part of the African Peoples History Month observance.
Created by the late Fresno State professor Dr. James Rogers, the Rosa Parks Awards recognize the accomplishments and contributions of those in the Fresno State community who represent the iconic leader’s qualities and leadership. This year marks the 50th anniversary of Parks and Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. leading the Civil Rights March in Selma, Alabama.
Fauli-Garibay was chosen for her community outreach to California Youth Connections Foster Club and the Youth Economic Opportunity Commission. She has also helped develop recommendations on local foster care issues for legislators and has advocated for legislative and policy change at the California State Capitol.
Five other awards were presented at the annual Africana Culture Night event Feb. 27:
- Black Students United (BSU) Dance Express (BDX), a student-founded dance group that performs on campus and in the community was the recipient of the Owning the Spotlight Arts award for exhibiting extraordinary talent, being dedicated to supporting those around them and commanding the stage with unique abilities and strength of character.
- Tranice Warner, a civil engineering major from Charlotte, North Carolina, received the Outstanding Scholar Academic award for demonstration of excellence throughout her academic career by holding a minimum 3.5 GPA or higher and actively contributing to the improvement of her community. She is a Boeing Scholarship recipient and treasurer of the National Society of Black Engineers.
- The Making it Happen Group Organization award was presented to the National Society of Black Engineers for mobilizing its members to be proactive citizens who expand outreach and create a network of socially conscious students. The organization hosted a regional conference and has volunteered for seven Mathematics Engineering Science Achievement (MESA) days logging in over 280 hours.
Devon Cooper & Dr. Francine Oputa
- The Unsung Hero Faculty or Staff award was presented to Devon Cooper, an accomplished debater and coach of the Barking Bulldogs debate team. The award goes to a staff member on campus who demonstrates a commitment to student success. Cooper encouraged children and youth from inner-city schools to get involved with debate.
For more information, contact Dr. Francine Oputa at 559.278.6946.
(Copy by Akyia Westley, University Communications news assistant)
